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Andrew Smith, Plumber

Category: Plumbing

Satisfied Customers: 3756

Experience: City and Guilds qualified plumber

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Am trying to drain then remove a radiator. I think I have both

Customer Question

Am trying to drain then remove a radiator. I think I have both valves turned off but have drained 3 buckets of water from it so far (single panel, approx. 700mm x 1400mm). Switched heating back on and all rads in the house are hot save for the one I have been trying to drain which makes me think maybe I have stopped refilling but can't understand why so much water coming out and more to drain?

Can you open them again and close them again and try and seal the valves tighter

Andrew Smith :

If the valves are nearly shut the radiator will not heat up

JACUSTOMER-yvweclbz- :

I turned what I believe is the inlet valve on the left clockwise as far as I could with a adjustable spanner. The valve of the left has a plastic cap over the top with small piece of metal showing through, same shape and size to the valve on the pipes I switched off and on when fitting washing machine (apologies, not familiar with terms!).

Andrew Smith :

Did the other valve get turned off with an adjustable spanner - hand tight will not stop the flow

JACUSTOMER-yvweclbz- :

Valve on the left yes, valve on the right I just turned the plastic cap clockwise as far as it would go - do I need to break the cap off and tighten with a spanner?

Andrew Smith :

It should pull off if there is not a screw in it

JACUSTOMER-yvweclbz- :

There is a v. small flathead screw in the middle. Is this likely to be the only issue? I'm not at home so need to do this tonight, I can remove the cap and tighten the valve - does water flow in both sides?

Andrew Smith :

Yes

Andrew Smith :

In and out both sides so they both need to be tight

Andrew Smith :

Come back to me later once you have done this

JACUSTOMER-yvweclbz- :

Andrew - removed cap and turned clockwise as far as I could. Water still coming but I can now feel the radiator heating up now too (heating currently on).

Andrew Smith :

Perhaps there may be grit on the seat of the valves?

Andrew Smith :

You may need to drain the system and swap the valves for better control, this would be an ideal time to fit a TRV if not already fitted.

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